State Ponders Elimination of Fire Supression Systems at Gas Stations

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — The Cuomo administration is downplaying a recommendation from one of its advisory boards to eliminate gas stations' overhead fire suppression systems, which supporters say save lives.

Cuomo spokesman Laz Benitez says Monday the Department of State is only in the early stages of considering the recommendation and won't take any action that would endanger lives as it tries to modernize the fire safety code.

Critics say the systems are outdated and costly.

The canopy protection systems automatically blast fire suppression material and shut off gasoline flow when a fire or explosion is detected at the pumps.

The systems have been required in New York since 1984. It's one of the few states with the requirement.